Elisha
Tangalle has a different pace than much of the south coast of Sri Lanka. While it’s a large town, its beaches are some of the most beautiful you’ll find in the whole country. Yet, it doesn’t draw the crowds like other places in Mirissa, Unawatuna, Hiriketiya and Weligama.
Tangalle offers a more laidback beach destination, with swaying palm trees, beachfront seafood restaurants, local guesthouses with sea views, and peaceful backwaters in the lagoon.
I finally visited Tangalle on my second trip to Sri Lanka and it quickly became one of my favourite places for some beach relaxation. While there’s not heaps going on at all hours, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy the sound of the waves, fresh fish, and sitting under the palms.
This post details everything you need to know, including the best things to do in Tangalle and where to stay.
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Is Tangalle Worth Visiting?
Most tourists don’t make it to Tangalle, focusing more on the surf spots around Weligama, Hiriketiya, Mirissa and Unawatuna on the south coast. This means Tangalle remains quieter and away from the crowds most of the time.
While it’s not a “hidden gem”, I was surprised how quiet Tangalle was, considering the beaches are some of the most beautiful I’ve seen in Sri Lanka. If you’re looking for a classic beach holiday without the lively nightlife and noise of surf party towns, then I suggest Tangalle should be high on your list.
If the backpacker, surfer, yogi crowds in Hiriketiya, Arugam Bay or Ahangama aren’t your thing, you’ll most likely fall in love with Tangalle. Plus, the wonderful local guesthouses that line the beach give it a much more authentic and intimate feel. It’s hard to leave.
How to Get to Tangalle
Tangalle is further along the south coast than many tourists reach. It’s about 200km south of Colombo.
Tangalle doesn’t have a railway station. So, the best way to reach the town is by bus. Otherwise, you can take the train to Matara and then change to a bus if you prefer. Otherwise, you can also book a private transfer from anywhere in the country.
From Colombo: There are several expressway buses running inland from Colombo to Tangalle from the private bus stand in Pettah. The journey takes about 4 hours.
From Galle, Weligama, or Hiriketiya: You can take any local bus travelling along the coast road heading to Tangalle. They leave frequently thoughout the day and you don’t have to buy a ticket in advance. You may have to change buses in Matara.
From Ella: The Bandarawela-Matara bus #31 travels through Ella several times per day. You’ll need to inform the conductor or ticket seller what your destination is so he can let you off in Tangalle. Or, book this transfer from Ella to Tangalle which includes a safari on the way.
From Arugam Bay: There is a direct bus from Pottuvil to Matara once a day at around 6:30am. This is the best way to travel to the South Coast from Arugam Bay, just tell the driver you want to get off in Tangalle.
Read next: 26 Travel Tips for Sri Lanka: Everything You Need to Know
When is the Best Time to Visit Tangalle
Sri Lanka’s dry season on the south coast from November to April is the best time to visit Tangalle. The weather will be dry and hot at this time (27°C to 33°C), perfect for relaxing on the beach and swimming.
From May to October, the monsoon moves southwest and brings rough seas, rain, and unpredictable weather. This is low season in the south and come businesses close down for the season.
I visited in November and had really great weather, plus it was just before high season so the beaches were quite empty and places were still very quiet.
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Where to Stay in Tangalle
Tangalle has a combination of beachfront guesthouses which are predominantly locally owned and run and often part of people’s homes. These are wonderful ways to get to know the local people and they often include a restaurant too where you can try the best local food. On the other hand, you’ll also find a few high-end resorts in Tangalle for those looking for something more special for their time on the south coast.
Mallika Guest House | This family run guesthouse is right on the beach down a quiet street. You have direct access to the safe swimming spot with beach chairs for guests and an onsite beachfront restaurant as well. The entire family is lovely, and I loved my stay here so much that I extended. For a budget price, you’ll get a basic ensuite room.
Serenity Beach Cabanas | Located right on Tangalle Beach, this place is close to town but also right on the beach so you have direct access to the sea. All the rooms have AC, private entrances, balconies and plenty of space. Plus, the onsite restaurant overlooks the sea. For those willing to spend a bit more, this place is worth it.
Ananthaya Beach | Located on Rekewa Beach, this resort is out of town but is ideal for romantic beach stays. All rooms offer sea views, and the large outdoor pool means you can relax in fresh or salt water. It’s a beautiful resort with exceptional reviews.
Where to Eat in Tangalle
A lot of restaurants are family-run affairs along the beach and coastal roads. However, you’ll also find a few more trendy cafes popping up too, serving Western-style favourites. Seafood is the real winner in Tangalle though, with almost every place offering the freshest catch of the day.
Mallika Cocktail Bar and Restaurant | This is part of the guesthouse where I stayed on the beach so I’m a little bias because I ate here every day, but the family cooks absolutely delicious food at reasonable prices, including fresh seafood. They’re open all day and it’s right in front of the safe swimming area so it’s very convenient.
Coco Ceylon Restaurant | This local restaurant is in the middle of Tangalle town, so it’s much cheaper than the beachfront restaurants. The daily rice and curry lunch is absolutely delicious and you’ll find plenty of locals coming in for a meal too. The staff are super nice but they can be very busy at peak times.
Mango Shade Restaurant | Back from the beach, this local restaurant is an absolute hidden gem. They serve up some of the best seafood in town including tuna steak, fresh mahi mahi, and calamari.
KoPI Tangalle | This trendy café should be your go-to for good coffee, smoothie bowls, pancakes, and avocado toast. It’s the best brunch spot for something that’s not local food.
Best Things to Do in Tangalle
If you find yourself craving some relaxing beach days, then Tangalle is the right place for it. However, if you also want to explore a bit, then here are the best things to do in Tangalle.
Relax and Swim at Tangalle Beach (sometimes referred to as Medaketiya Beach)
Tangalle has a long beach right along the coast with golden sand and swaying palm trees. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. It’s perfect for relaxing because it’s not a surf beach, so it’s rarely crowded like other places on the south coast.
It sweeps around the bay from Tangalle town to Rekawa Point. The waves and swell can be deceivingly strong all year round, so while you can certainly swim it’s not always the safest place.
There are a few safe swimming spots which have been protected and are guarded in dry season. One is found right in front of Brothers Bar Restaurant and Mallika Guest House. There is another closer to main town as well.
Otherwise, you’ll find a few places have sun beds on the sand, which you can use as long as you purchase a drink or you’re staying at their place.
Eat Fresh Seafood at a Beachfront Restaurant
Tangalle has some of the best seafood in the country along with Trincomalee further north, pulled in fresh at Tangalle harbour every day. Many of the local restaurants serve all seafood from tuna to mahi mahi, prawns and calamari.
There’s nothing like having a whole baked fish by candlelight on the sand at Tangalle. It’s definitely a must.
Kayak on Tangalle Lagoon (Rekawa Lagoon)
An underrated activity in Tangalle is exploring the tranquil lagoon behind Tangalle Beach. A few places close to the lagoon hire kayaks which you can take for a couple of hours in the evening or the early morning to explore the mangroves and the incredible birdlife.
The guesthouse where I stayed, Mallika Guest House, offer kayaks and canoes with life jackets and are really helpful with arranging trips around the lagoon.
Turtle Hatching at Rekawa Beach
From April to September, Rekawa Beach, located east of Tangalle, comes alive as seven different species of turtles make their way to the shore to lay their eggs. The best time to see the turtles are from April to July between sunset and sunrise.
The Turtle Watch events by the Rekawa Turtle Watch occur every day of the year. You can join them each evening at 8:30pm to witness the turtles come ashore. They charge around 2000 LKR per person, with proceeds going back to the organisation to help protect turtles in Sri Lanka.
Visit Silent Beach
Often considered the most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka, Silent Beach is a must visit when in Tangalle. It’s just a 10-minute drive from town. The best option is to take a tuk tuk or your own scooter and park at the end of the road above the beach.
Otherwise, you can also jump on a local bus from Tangalle and get off at the Silent Beach Junction on the main road. From there, you can walk the kilometre or so along the quiet back road to the beach.
To get down to the beach, you’ll have to walk down concrete steps and then pass through a local bar set up on the sand. From there, you can walk along the beach and find somewhere to sit.
There are a few little bars and restaurants that have set up on the beach with sun beds. You can sit on the chairs as long as you purchase something but of course, expect the prices to be inflated compared to in town.
Eat Traditional Food at Tangalle Rice and Curry
One of the best foodie experiences on the south coast is definitely having dinner at Tangalle Rice and Curry. This local restaurant on the main road may be often overlooked but it’s easily one of the best meals you’ll ever have. I’ve been several times and it never disappoints.
The restaurant only serves dinner and you must book in advance. It’s an open rice and curry buffet with over 30 curries to choose from, and you can eat as much as you like. You can also watch the chefs at work and learn a bit about Sri Lankan cooking before dining.
It works on a pay what you wish system – so you simply pay what you think the service is worth. Drinks have set prices though and they have alcohol available.
Surf at Unakuruwa Beach
On the way to Silent Beach you’ll pass a small cove called Unakuruwa Beach. This is still very much under the radar but it’s a beautiful little spot that has some surfable waves. There’s now a couple of restaurants and hotels built on the beach there, and a couple of surf schools too.
Aga Surf View Hotel has the best spot on this small bay and is a great place to grab a nice meal. Even better, if you want to splurge a little on a stay, the hotel is beautiful with rooms starting at around US$140 per night.
It reminds me of a tiny version of Hiriketiya but without the crowds (yet). You can easily spend some time here relaxing.
Go to Goyambokka Beach
On the other side of Silent Beach, I suggest heading to Goyambokka if Silent Beach gets too busy. The beautiful sandy bay has restaurants offering loungers for those willing to buy a drink or meal.
There are a couple of resorts also built just above the beach for those looking to stay in luxury. Palm Paradise Cabanas and Villas offer stunning cabins with sea views amongst the palm trees for that perfect dreamy island vibe.
Day Trip to Hiriketiya Beach
Just half an hour from Tangalle is Hiriketiya. This stunning horse-shoe bay tucked away from Dickwella has become one of the hottest places to be on the south coast. The tiny village is blessed with one of the most serene locations, with a thick jungle and palm-fringed bay surrounding an epic surf break.
It has become the coolest spot, with a booming café, surf and yoga culture that has transformed this place into a backpackers haven. It’s not as quiet as it once was though, with parties and bars thriving all night long in high season.
If you prefer the quietness of Tangalle, then you can simply visit Hiriketiya for the day to see what the hype is about. It’s only 30 minutes from Tangalle and you can easily jump on a bus from Tangalle Bus Station to Dickwella and then take a tuk tuk to the beach.
If you visit for the day, I suggest checking out:
- Walk to Blue Beach Island
- Bunch Café or Dunis Hoppers Café for brunch
- Surf in Hiriketiya Bay
- Lemon Grass Café for rice and curry
Read more: Ultimate Guide to Hiriketiya Beach
Explore Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
Somewhere most people haven’t heard of, Kalametiya Lagoon is a large expansive wetland and lagoon system home to over 150 species of birds and other animals. Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary is open all year-round, but the best time to visit for bird watching is between November and April, with sunrise tours offering the best chances.
They offer eco paddle boat safaris, jungle walks, and bird watching excursions with expert guides for keen photographers and bird watchers. I suggest booking in advance to ensure they have guides available.
Go on Safari in Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park
Tangalle is significantly closer to the national parks in Sri Lanka for safari. Both Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park are 90 minutes away, making it ideal for a day trip.
You can opt for an open-top safari jeep tour through the national park to spot elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and the elusive leopard. Most tours can offer a door-to-door transport service from Tangalle, making it really convenient for a full day adventure.
If you want to visit these national parks, Tangalle is an ideal base. Otherwise, you can also opt to stay at one of the safari resorts, but they are quite pricey. A day trip is generally enough time to see the animals and return.
More Sri Lanka Travel Guides
- South Sri Lanka: Ultimate 2 Week South Sri Lanka Itinerary
- Sigiriya: Ultimate Guide to Sigiriya: Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle
- Ella: 10 Best Things to Do in Ella: An Essential Guide
- Kandy: 10 Best Things to Do in Kandy
- Weligama: Layback Surf Camp Review in Weligama
- Ahangama: 14 Best Things to Do in Ahangama & Midigama
- Hiriketiya: Hiriketiya Beach: A Guide to Sri Lanka’s Little Coastal Paradise
- Jaffna: 10 Best Things to Do in Jaffna
- Trincomalee: Trincomalee Travel Guide: Underrated Beach Destination in Sri Lanka
- Colombo: Best Things to Do in Colombo in 24 Hours
- Galle: 2 Days in Galle Fort: Best Things to Do in Galle
- North Sri Lanka: 10 Day North Sri Lanka Itinerary
- Arugam Bay: 10 Best Things to Do in Arugam Bay
- Delft Island: How to Visit Delft Island: Sri Lanka’s Remote Island Near Jaffna
- SIM Card: Buying a SIM Card for Sri Lanka, Which is Better?
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How can we find more such accommodation options in Sri Lanka? Great insights btw!!